What is the ruling on employment of women as cashiers? What is the ruling on the practice of employing women for such a job by businesses?

What is the ruling on employment of women as cashiers? What is the ruling on the practice of employing women for such a job by businesses?

Q: Several businesses employ women as cashiers. These women meet dozens of men everyday and talk to them while accepting payment for a transaction or giving change. Sometimes these women need to interact with their male colleagues or supervisors. What is the ruling on employment of women in such a position? What is the ruling on the practice of employing women for such a job by businesses?

A: It is not permissible for a Muslim woman to work in a place where she would interact with men. She must avoid employment where she would have to interact with men and look for another permissible position so as not to cause problems for herself and others. The question presents situations that would create problems for herself or the potential for men to fall into guilt because of her. So it is legally unlawful for the woman, but it is also unlawful for businesses to recruit women for these positions.